The San Antonio Express-News article shares how Pre-K 4 SA is expanding its early childhood education model to include infants and toddlers through a new pilot program launched in fall 2025 at its South Education Center. The article highlights the growing recognition that learning and brain development begin long before kindergarten, while also addressing San Antonio’s shortage of affordable, high-quality childcare options. Leaders and advocates say the expansion could help improve developmental outcomes for children while also supporting working families economically.
Early Matters SA Executive Director, Mark Larson states, “About 90% of a person’s brain development takes place before the first day of kindergarten.”
The story notes that Pre-K 4 SA has already served more than 23,000 children since voters approved the city-funded initiative in 2012, and city leaders are now discussing long-term reauthorization and possible expansion of services for children ages zero to three. Families participating in the pilot reported noticeable developmental growth in their children, while researchers and policymakers emphasized the broader economic and educational impact of early childhood investment.